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Mucosal Immunity (mucosal + immunity)
Selected AbstractsInfluence of the Murine Oestrous Cycle on the Induction of Mucosal ImmunityAMERICAN JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTIVE IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 5 2003Christine M. Gockel Problem: To determine if the stage of oestrous cycle, at the time of immunization, affects the magnitude of mucosal and systemic immunity. Method of study: Female BALB/c mice were immunized with tetanus toxoid and cholera toxin by the oral, intranasal and transcutaneous routes. Groups of mice were immunized at proestrus, oestrus, postestrus and diestrus. Antibodies in serum and mucosal secretions were determined by ELISA and T cell responses by lymphocyte proliferation assay. Results: Oral immunization at the oestradiol dominant stage of cycle (oestrus and proestrus) significantly enhanced TT-specific IgG and IgA levels in female reproductive tract (FRT) secretions and TT-specific IgA levels in faecal extracts. Transcutaneous immunization at diestrus enhanced TT-specific IgG in faecal extracts. TT-specific T cell proliferation is greatest following intranasal immunization at proestrus and transcutaneous immunization at diestrus, particularly in the caudal and lumbar lymph nodes draining the FRT and colon. Conclusions: Reproductive cycle-associated changes in the endogenous sex hormones oestradiol and progesterone influence the levels of vaccine-induced immunity in the FRT and distal colon following oral and transcutaneous immunization. [source] Hypersensitivity and oral tolerance in the absence of a secretory immune systemALLERGY, Issue 5 2010M. R. Karlsson To cite this article: Karlsson M-R, Johansen F-E, Kahu H, Macpherson A, Brandtzaeg P. Hypersensitivity and oral tolerance in the absence of a secretory immune system. Allergy 2010; 65: 561,570. Abstract Background:, Mucosal immunity protects the epithelial barrier by immune exclusion of foreign antigens and by anti-inflammatory tolerance mechanisms, but there is a continuing debate about the role of secretory immunoglobulins (SIgs), particularly SIgA, in the protection against allergy and other inflammatory diseases. Lack of secretory antibodies may cause immune dysfunction and affect mucosally induced (oral) tolerance against food antigens. Methods:, We used polymeric Ig receptor (pIgR) knockout (KO) mice, which cannot export SIgA or SIgM, to study oral tolerance induction by ovalbumin (OVA) feeding and for parenteral antigen sensitization in the same animal. Results:, Remarkable systemic hyperreactivity was observed in pIgR KO mice, as 50% died after intradermal OVA challenge, which was not seen in similarly sensitized and challenged wild-type (WT) mice. Oral tolerance induced by OVA completely protected the sensitized pIgR KO mice against anaphylaxis and suppressed antibody levels (particularly IgG1) as well as delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) to OVA. Delayed-type hypersensitivity to a bystander antigen, human serum albumin, was also suppressed and T-cell proliferation against OVA in vitro was reduced in tolerized compared with non-tolerized pIgR KO mice. This effect was largely mediated by CD25+ T cells. Adoptive transfer of splenic putative regulatory T cells (CD4+ CD25+) obtained from OVA-fed pIgR KO mice to naïve WT mice mediated suppression of DTH against OVA after sensitization of the recipients. Conclusion:, Compensatory regulatory T-cell function becomes critical in pIgR-deficient mice to avoid the potentially catastrophic effects of systemic immune hyperreactivity, presumably resulting from defective secretory antibody-mediated immune exclusion of microbial components. [source] Mucosal immunity and type 1 diabetes: looking at the horizon beyond cow's milkPEDIATRIC DIABETES, Issue 5 2008Melissa D Simpson No abstract is available for this article. [source] Oral vaccines: new needs, new possibilitiesBIOESSAYS, Issue 6 2007Mohd Azhar Aziz Vaccination is an important tool for handling healthcare programs both in developed and developing countries. The current global scenario calls for a more-efficacious, acceptable, cost-effective and reliable method of immunization for many fatal diseases. It is hoped that the adoption of oral vaccines will help to provide an effective vaccination strategy, especially in developing countries. Mucosal immunity generated by oral vaccines can serve as a strong first line of defense against most of the pathogens infecting through the mucosal lining. Advances in elucidating the mechanism of action of oral vaccines will facilitate the design of more effective, new generation vaccines. There are promising developments in the use of different agents to effectively deliver the vaccine candidate. It is hoped that ongoing research may be able to set another cardinal point, after polio vaccine, in eradicating infectious diseases. BioEssays 29:591,604, 2007. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [source] Oral Vaccination Against Helicobacter pylori with Recombinant Cholera Toxin B-SubunitHELICOBACTER, Issue 4 2005Eiji Kubota ABSTRACT Background., The innocuous pure recombinant cholera toxin B-subunit (rCTB) is very attractive as a strong adjuvant for host immunization, but little is known about rCTB's gastric mucosal immunoadjuvanticity against Helicobacter pylori. The immunoadjuvanticity of rCTB against H. pylori was tested. Material and methods., Mice were immunized with sonicated H. pylori and rCTB orally or intranasally and sacrificed on day 42 after immunization. Passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) test was performed to evaluate IgE-mediated anaphylaxis with serum from mice to which H. pylori -antigen with rCTB had been administered. Immunoglobulin titer specific to H. pylori in serum, lavation of the gastrointestinal tracts and feces were examined. Gastritis in vaccinated mice after a challenge was assessed with the scoring defined from grading of gastric inflammation. H. pylori proliferation after immunization was investigated by counting colony forming units (CFU) per gram of stomach tissue. Results., PCA test exhibited no reactions against the serum from mice immunized with H. pylori -antigen with rCTB administered orally and intranasally. Oral and nasal coadministrations of rCTB significantly raised systemic and mucosal immunities against H. pylori and suppressed proliferation of H. pylori in gastric mucosa. The score of gastritis in mice immunized orally was significantly higher than that of mice immunized nasally due to postimmunization gastritis. Only oral administration of rCTB suppressed H. pylori proliferation as compared with intranasal administration and without rCTB. Conclusions., The present study indicated that rCTB has systemic and mucosal immunoadjuvanticities against H. pylori and that oral vaccination with rCTB might additively support antibiotic eradication. [source] M cells and associated lymphoid tissue of the equine nasopharyngeal tonsilEQUINE VETERINARY JOURNAL, Issue 3 2001P. KUMAR Summary The aim of this study was to characterise the morphological and histochemical features of equine nasopharyngeal tonsillar tissue. Nasal and oropharyngeal tonsillar tissue has been described as the gatekeeper to mucosal immunity because of its strategic location at the entrance to the respiratory and alimentary tracts. A combination of light, scanning and transmission electron microscopy has revealed the presence of follicle-associated epithelium (FAE) overlying lymphoid tissue of the equine nasopharyngeal tonsil caudal to the pharyngeal opening of the guttural pouch. Membranous microvillus (M) cells were identified in the FAE on the basis of short microvilli, an intimate association with lymphocytes, cytoplasmic vimentin filaments and epitopes on the apical surface reactive with lectin GS I-B4 specific for ,-linked galactose. CD4-positive lymphocytes were scattered throughout the lamina propria mucosae as well as forming dense aggregates in the subepithelial part. The central follicular area was heavily populated with B lymphocytes and the dome and parafollicular areas contained both CD4- and CD8-positive lymphocytes. CD8-positive lymphocytes were also present in the epithelium and, together with B lymphocytes, in small numbers in the lamina propria mucosae. These observations indicate that the nasopharyngeal tonsil is potentially an important mucosal immune induction site in the horse and an appropriate target forintranasally administered vaccines. [source] Antimicrobial peptides and proteins, exercise and innate mucosal immunityFEMS IMMUNOLOGY & MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 3 2006Nicholas P. West Abstract This review examines the question of whether exercise can be used as an experimental model to further our understanding of innate antimicrobial peptides and proteins (AMPs) and their role in susceptibility to infection at mucosal surfaces. There is strong evidence to suggest that AMPs, in combination with cellular and physical factors, play an important role in preventing infection. Although AMPs act directly on microorganisms, there is increasing recognition that they also exert their protective effect via immunomodulatory mechanisms, especially in noninflammatory conditions. Further studies that manipulate physiologically relevant concentrations of AMPs are required to shed light on the role they play in reducing susceptibility to infection. Evidence shows that in various form prolonged and/or exhaustive exercise is a potent modulator of the immune system, which can either sharpen or blunt the immune response to pathogens. The intensity and duration of exercise can be readily controlled in experimental settings to manipulate the degree of physical stress. This would allow for an investigation into a potential dose,response effect between exercise and AMPs. In addition, the use of controlled exercise could provide an experimental model by which to examine whether changes in the concentration of AMPs alters susceptibility to illness. [source] Comparative evaluation of intranasal and subcutaneous route of immunization for development of mucosal vaccine against experimental tuberculosisFEMS IMMUNOLOGY & MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 1 2005Pramod K. Giri Abstract Activation of mucosal immunity in the respiratory tract is crucial for protection against respiratory infections. Whether the intranasal route of vaccination imparts better protection against pulmonary tuberculosis than that of subcutaneous vaccination remains a debatable issue. In this study, we have investigated the effect of the routes of immunization on the induction of immunoprotection against experimental tuberculosis employing mycobacterial culture filtrate proteins complexed with dimethyldioctadecylammonium bromide. Vaccination via intranasal and subcutaneous routes triggered immune activation in the spleen and cervical lymph node, while the former route of vaccination lead to higher antigen-specific lymphocyte proliferation, interferon-,, interleukin-12 and interleukin-4 responses in cervical lymph node and induction of antigen-specific IgA responses at mucosal level of the respiratory tract. Mice vaccinated via the intranasal route were found to be better protected against experimental tuberculosis particularly in lung compared to subcutaneous-immunized mice. These results emphasize the importance of the intranasal route vaccination in tuberculosis. [source] Effect of exercise, aging and functional capacity on acute secretory immunoglobulin A response in elderly people over 75 years of ageGERIATRICS & GERONTOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, Issue 1 2009Yuzuru Sakamoto Background: Age-associated decline in immune function and regulation, referred to as immunosenescence, brings about an increased incidence of infectious diseases in the aged; however, there are few data on the effect of aging and exercise on mucosal immune function in elderly people. Moreover, there is no evidence on whether the change in functional capacity affects mucosal immunity in elderly people. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine the effects of exercise, aging and functional capacity on mucosal immune function in elderly people over 75 years of age. Methods: The subjects were 92 community-dwelling elderly women aged over 75 years who lived in a rural community in Miyagi Prefecture. The subjects periodically performed approximately 20 min of low intensity exercise. Saliva samples were collected before and after exercise, and saliva flow (SF), secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) concentration (SIgA-C) and SIgA secretion rate (SIgA-SR) were determined. The Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence (TMIG-IC) was used to measure functional capacity. Results: In comparison with before exercise, SF, SIgA-C and SIgA-SR were significantly increased after exercise in elderly subjects. In addition, when low and high value groups of resting SIgA levels were compared, acute SIgA responses were observed only in the low value group; however, there was no significant effect of aging and decline in functional capacity on exercise-induced SIgA response. Conclusion: These results suggest that resting SIgA levels influence the mucosal immune function response to exercise in elderly people over 75 years of age. [source] Improving M cell mediated transport across mucosal barriers: do certain bacteria hold the keys?IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 1 2004Angela L. Man Summary Specialized microfold (M) cells of the follicle-associated epithelium (FAE) of the mucosal-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) in gut and the respiratory system play an important role in the genesis of both mucosal and systemic immune responses by delivering antigenic substrate to the underlying lymphoid tissue where immune responses start. Although it has been shown that dendritic cells (DC) also have the ability to sample antigens directly from the gut lumen, M cells certainly remain the most important antigen-sampling cell to be investigated in order to devise novel methods to improve mucosal delivery of biologically active compounds. Recently, novel information on the interactions between bacteria and FAE have come to light that unveil further the complex cross-talk taking place at mucosal interfaces between bacteria, epithelial cells and the immune system and which are central to the formation and function of M cells. In particular, it has been shown that M cell mediated transport of antigen across the FAE is improved rapidly by exposure to certain bacteria, thus opening the way to identify new means to achieve a more effective mucosal delivery. Here, these novel findings and their potential in mucosal immunity are analysed and discussed, and new approaches to improve antigen delivery to the mucosal immune system are also proposed. [source] Nuclear factor-,B contributes to interleukin-4- and interferon-dependent polymeric immunoglobulin receptor expression in human intestinal epithelial cellsIMMUNOLOGY, Issue 1 2004Laynez W. Ackermann Summary Polymeric immunoglobulins (pIgs) that are present at mucosal surfaces play key roles in both the innate and adaptive immune responses. These pIgs are delivered to the mucosal surface via transcytosis across the epithelium, a process mediated by the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR). Previous studies demonstrate that expression of the pIgR is regulated by multiple immunomodulatory factors including interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interferon-, (IFN-,). In studies using human intestinal epithelial cells (HT29), multiple inhibitors of the transcription factor nuclear factor-,B (NF-,B), including a dominant negative I,B,-serine mutant, inhibited both IL-4- and IFN-dependent increases in pIgR expression. Under identical conditions, NF-,B inhibitors had no effect on cytokine-dependent increases in expression of the transcription factor interferon regulatory factor-1. Over-expression of the I,B,-serine mutant also inhibited reporter gene expression in response to IL-4, TNF-,, IL-1,, and in some cases IFN-, using constructs with sequences from the pIgR promoter. Reduced levels of pIgR were observed even when inhibitors were added ,24 hr after cytokines suggesting that prolonged activation of NF-,B is required. Finally, reporter gene studies with NF-,B enhancer elements indicated that IFN-, alone and IL-4 in combination with other cytokines activated NF-,B in HT29 cells. Together, these studies provide additional insight into the signalling pathways that contribute to expression of the pIgR, a critical player in mucosal immunity. [source] N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid diet therapy for patients with inflammatory bowel diseaseINFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASES, Issue 10 2010Kan Uchiyama MD Abstract Background: N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are considered important pharmaconutrients for modulating mucosal immunity and therapeutic responses in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We investigated the influence of diet therapy involving the use of an "n-3 PUFA food exchange table" (n-3DP) on the fatty acid composition of the erythrocyte membranes of IBD patients and its remission-maintaining effects. Methods: We analyzed the fatty acid composition of the erythrocyte membrane before and after n-3DP intervention in 20 initial-onset IBD patients who had not undergone any dietary intervention. We then analyzed it again and evaluated disease activity after 12,18 months intervention in 230 IBD patients (168 ulcerative colitis, 62 Crohn's disease; follow-up group) in whom n-3DP was introduced after remission had been achieved. The follow-up group was divided into remission and relapse groups. Results: In the 20 initial-onset patients, the mean n-3/n-6 ratio significantly increased after intervention (0.41 ± 0.16 versus 0.70 ± 0.20; P < 0.001). In the follow-up group the ratio in the remission group (n = 145) was significantly higher than that in the relapse group (n = 85) (0.65 ± 0.28 versus 0.53 ± 0.18; P < 0.001). The ratio significantly decreased in those who suffered a relapse after the beginning of treatment (P < 0.01). Conclusions: N-3DP significantly increased the erythrocyte membrane n-3/n-6 ratio in IBD patients, and this ratio was significantly higher in the remission group, suggesting that n-3DP alters the fatty acid composition of the cell membrane and influences clinical activity in IBD patients. (Inflamm Bowel Dis 2010) [source] Nutriose, a prebiotic low-digestible carbohydrate, stimulates gut mucosal immunity and prevents TNBS-induced colitis in piglets,INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASES, Issue 5 2010Philippe R. Pouillart PhD Abstract Background: We investigated a prebiotic low-digestible carbohydrate (LDC) as a possible food ingredient to stimulate bowel functions in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. The study aimed to assess a fermentable dextrin fiber (Nutriose) and its relationship to the immune management of the disease and the microbiota profile in colitis-bearing piglets. Methods: In a randomized placebo-controlled parallel blind preclinical study, 32 male piglets were fed LDC (4% Nutriose) or dextrose placebo for 44 days before being challenged with trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) to induce colitis. We followed the microbiota profile using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeted to 9 bacterial genera. Secretory IgA was evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Inflammatory protein profiles were monitored in blood and colonic tissues. Both histological scoring of biopsy samples and live endoscopic scoring were used to measure colitis development. Results: Prior and continuing LDC supplementation alleviated the symptoms of colitis (body weight loss, bloody stools) induced by a TNBS challenge. This effect was associated with an improvement in endoscopic and histological scores. LDC was shown to selectively downregulate some of the proinflammatory factors and their concomitant pyretic events and to stimulate the Th2-related immune pathway (IL-10 and s-IgA). Conclusions: At the dose tested, LDC is a well-tolerated prebiotic agent able to not only stimulate butyrogenic bacteria strains and reduce intestinal transit disorders and energy intake, but also to prevent chronic inflammatory intestinal injuries. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2010 [source] Inducible and constitutive ,-defensins are differentially expressed in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitisINFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASES, Issue 4 2003Jan Wehkamp Abstract Antimicrobial peptides such as defensins provide nonspecific mucosal defense against a multitude of microorganisms. Recently, it has been shown that luminal bacteria may invade the mucosa in inflammatory bowel diseases, suggesting a defect in innate mucosal immunity. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of human ,-defensins (HBD) in controls, Crohn's disease (CD), ulcerative colitis (UC), and unspecific inflammation. Up to 4 biopsies were taken from 103 patients (33 controls, 24 with Crohn's disease, 36 with ulcerative colitis, 10 with unspecific colitis). Mucosal mRNA was measured using real-time fluorescence temperature cycler reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction with primers for HBD-1, HBD-2, HBD-3, tumor necrosis factor ,, and interleukin 8. Mucosal HBD-1 expression was marginally decreased in both CD and UC. HBD-2 was increased exclusively in UC but not in CD. The expression of the novel defensin HBD-3 was strongly correlated with HBD-2 and also raised predominantly in UC. The expression of both inducible ,-defensins was enhanced in the state of inflammation. Expression of HBD-2 showed a weak correlation with interleukin 8 only in inflamed CD biopsies but not with tumor necrosis factor ,. The missing induction of both inducible ,-defensins in CD as compared with UC may cause a defect in barrier function that predisposes to bacterial invasion. [source] A viewpoint of mucosal immunity in relation to early feeding methodINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 4 2001Michael Oladipo Ogundele Summary Atopic diseases are common health problems in society and their incidence is increasing unabated. A number of studies in animal models have shown that antigen-specific IgE suppression could be induced for the treatment of allergic disorders. Many of the present therapeutic strategies in children have not been entirely successful and early breastfeeding could provide a practicable means of helping the affected children. An overview of the mucosal immune system is hereby presented to explain the natural mechanisms involved in protecting organisms from allergic reactions to food and other non-harmful antigens presented at the mucosal surfaces. The protective role of early breastfeeding in modulating this natural phenomenon is emphasized. The undeniable limitations of breastfeeding in the management of some peculiar cases of childhood dietary protein intolerance are also highlighted. [source] Introduction: Back to basics: mucosal immunity and novel HIV vaccine conceptsJOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 1 2009K. Broliden First page of article [source] Comparison of intranasal with targeted lymph node immunization using PR8-Flu ISCOM adjuvanted HIV antigens in macaquesJOURNAL OF MEDICAL VIROLOGY, Issue 5 2007G. Koopman Abstract The rapidly spreading HIV epidemic requires a vaccine that elicits potent mucosal immunity to halt or slow transmission. Induction of these responses will depend on the use of appropriate adjuvants and targeting of the mucosal immune system. Previously, immune stimulating complexes (ISCOM) have shown great potency as adjuvant in the induction of mucosal responses in mice and systemic responses in non-human primates. In this study, HIV formulated in PR8-Flu ISCOM adjuvant was applied to immunize rhesus macaques against HIV; targeting the mucosa either via intranasal (IN) application or via targeted lymph node immunization (TLNI). While, strong systemic, HIV specific, cytokine, lymphoproliferative, and antibody responses were induced via the TLNI route, the IN application generated only low responses. Furthermore, all four animals immunized via TLNI developed vaginal IgA antibodies against gp120. In conclusion, in contrast to what has been demonstrated in mice, the IN application of PR8-Flu ISCOM did not induce strong immune responses in rhesus macaques unlike those immunized by the TLNI route. J. Med. Virol. 79:474,482, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Adaptation of Mesenteric Collecting Lymphatic Pump Function Following Acute Alcohol IntoxicationMICROCIRCULATION, Issue 7 2010FLAVIA M. SOUZA-SMITH Please cite this paper as: Souza-Smith, Kurtz, Molina and Breslin (2010). Adaptation of Mesenteric Collecting Lymphatic Pump Function Following Acute Alcohol Intoxication. Microcirculation17(7), 514,524. Abstract Objective:, Acute alcohol intoxication increases intestinal lymph flow by unknown mechanisms, potentially impacting mucosal immunity. We tested the hypothesis that enhanced intrinsic pump function of mesenteric lymphatics contributes to increased intestinal lymph flow during alcohol intoxication. Methods:, Acute alcohol intoxication was produced by intragastric administration of 30% alcohol to conscious, unrestrained rats through surgically implanted catheters. Time-matched controls received either no bolus, vehicle, or isocaloric dextrose. Thirty minutes after alcohol administration, rats were anesthetized and mesenteric collecting lymphatics were isolated and cannulated to study intrinsic pumping parameters. In separate experiments, mesenteric lymphatics were isolated to examine direct effects of alcohol on intrinsic pump activity. Results:, Lymphatics isolated from alcohol-intoxicated animals displayed significantly decreased CF compared to the dextrose group, elevated SVI versus all other groups, and decreased myogenic responsiveness compared to sham. Elevating pressure from 2 to 4 cm H2O increased the volume flow index 2.4-fold in the alcohol group versus 1.4-fold for shams. Isolated lymphatics exposed to 20 mM alcohol had reduced myogenic tone, without changes in CF or SVI. Conclusions:, Alcohol intoxication enhances intrinsic pumping by mesenteric collecting lymphatics. Alcohol directly decreases lymphatic myogenic tone, but effects on phasic contractions occur by an unidentified mechanism. [source] Probiotics effects on gastrointestinal function: beyond the gut?NEUROGASTROENTEROLOGY & MOTILITY, Issue 5 2009E. F. Verdu Abstract, The digestive tract works through a complex network of integrative functions. At the level of the gut, this integration occurs between the immune, neuromotor and enteroendocrine systems, coordinating the physical and chemical elements of the intestinal barrier in order to facilitate digestion whilst protecting the gut from unwanted components of the luminal contents. Gastrointestinal function is controlled and coordinated by the central nervous system to ensure effective motility, secretion, absorption and mucosal immunity. It follows that perturbations in this complex network could lead to gut dysfunction and symptom generation. Recently, attention has been focused on the emerging hypothesis that gut luminal content contributes to determine normal GI function and on the therapeutic possibilities arising from modulating its impact on gut physiology and immunity using probiotic bacteria. In this issue of Neurogastroenterology and Motility, two papers explore the effect of specific probiotic bacteria on spinal neuronal activation and in vitro muscle contractility. These papers support the notion that the composition of the intestinal microbiota can influence gut neuro-motor function and enhance our understanding on the mechanisms of action underlying the effects of specific probiotics on gut functional disorders. [source] The mucosal immune systemPARASITE IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 5 2003Thomas T. MacDonald SUMMARY This article outlines the lymphoid structures and cell types important in the intestinal immune response. Particular attention is paid to differences between rodents and man where there appears to be fundamental differences in the sources of the T and B cells which populate the mucosa. The majority of the data still suggest that Peyer's patches are the inductive site of mucosal immunity and the mucosa (lamina propria and epithelium) is the effector site, but there is growing realization that mucosal immune responses can occur in the absence of Peyer's patches and that antigen sampling may also occur in the lamina propria. [source] ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Female Genital Tract Secretions Inhibit Herpes Simplex Virus Infection: Correlation with Soluble Mucosal Immune Mediators and Impact of Hormonal ContraceptionAMERICAN JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTIVE IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 2 2010Gail F. Shust Citation Shust GF, Cho S, Kim M, Madan RP, Guzman EM, Pollack M, Epstein J, Cohen HW, Keller MJ, Herold BC. Female genital tract secretions inhibit herpes simplex virus infection: correlation with soluble mucosal immune mediators and impact of hormonal contraception. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010; 63: 110,119 Problem, Female genital tract secretions inhibit herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection, however, the intra- and inter-subject variability, contribution of specific mediators, and impact of reproductive hormones have not been defined. Method of study, Cervicovaginal lavage (CVL) (n = 89) obtained from nine cyclers and seven women on hormonal contraception (HC), who completed between three and eight weekly visits, were examined for anti-herpes simplex virus activity and concentrations of mediators. Results, The CVL inhibited HSV infection by a mean value of approximately 57% during the follicular or luteal phase, but only by 36% in hormonal contraceptive users. Human neutrophil peptides 1,3 (HNP1-3) (P = 0.03), IL-8 (P = 0.003), lactoferrin (P = 0.005), lysozyme (P = 0.003), IgA (P = 0.002), and IgG (P = 0.02) correlated with antiviral activity. Intra-subject and inter-subject variability was observed, suggesting that factors other than hormones contribute to innate defense. Conclusion, Endogenous antimicrobial activity may provide a biomarker of healthy mucosal immunity and may be reduced in the setting of HC. However, larger prospective studies are needed. [source] ORIGINAL ARTICLE: A Multi-Subunit Chlamydial Vaccine Induces Antibody and Cell-Mediated Immunity in Immunized Koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus): Comparison of Three Different AdjuvantsAMERICAN JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTIVE IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 2 2010Alison J. Carey Citation Carey AJ, Timms P, Rawlinson G, Brumm J, Nilsson K, Harris JM, Beagley KW. A multi-subunit chlamydial vaccine induces antibody and cell-mediated immunity in immunized koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus): comparison of three different adjuvants. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010; 63: 161,172 Problem, Chlamydial infections represent a major threat to the survival of the koala. Infections caused by Chlamydia pecorum cause blindness, infertility, pneumonia and urinary tract infections and represent a threat to the survival of the species. Little is known about the immune response in koalas, or the safety of commonly used adjuvants for induction of protective systemic and mucosal immunity. Method of study, In the present study, we immunized 18 healthy female koalas subcutaneously with a combination of three chlamydial antigens [major outer membrane protein (MOMP), NrdB and TC0512 (Omp85)] mixed with one of three different adjuvants [Alhydrogel, Immunostimulating Complex (ISC) and TiterMax Gold]. Results, All adjuvants induced strong neutralizing IgG responses in plasma against the three antigens with prolonged responses lasting more than 270 days seen in Alhydrogel and ISC immunized animals. Cloacal IgG responses lasting >270 days were also induced in ISC-immunized animals. Chlamydia -specific peripheral blood mononuclear cell proliferative responses were elicited by both Alhydrogel and ISC, and these lasted >270 days in the ISC group. Conclusion, The data show that a multi-subunit chlamydial vaccine, given subcutaneously, can elicit Chlamydia -specific cell-mediated and antibody responses in the koala demonstrating that the development of a protective vaccine is feasible. [source] A cell preparation of Enterococcus faecalis strain EC-12 stimulates the luminal immunoglobulin A secretion in juvenile calvesANIMAL SCIENCE JOURNAL, Issue 2 2009Takeshi TSURUTA ABSTRACT The immune system in juvenile calves is immature, so calves are susceptible to several diarrheal and respiratory diseases. Oral administration of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) is known to improve the growth performance and prevent diarrheal and respiratory diseases by stimulating the immune system in juvenile calves. Most of the immunostimulation by LAB is achieved by their cell wall components, and therefore we evaluated the immunostimulation of the cell preparation of Enterococcus faecalis strain EC-12 (EC-12) in juvenile calves in a clinical field. Twenty-nine 1-week old calves were used. Fourteen calves were administered 0.2% (w/w) of an EC-12 preparation that supplemented a milk replacer, and other calves were not supplemented. Feces and serum was collected at day 0, 7 and 49 after the administration to measure the IgA and IgG concentration. The fecal IgA concentration was increased by EC-12 administration at day 49, and the serum IgA concentration was also increased at day 7. These results suggested that oral administration of EC-12 in juvenile calves might have an immunostimulatory effect and provide earlier recovery of IgA levels in mucosal immunity. [source] Overexpression of interleukin-23, but not interleukin-17, as an immunologic signature of subclinical intestinal inflammation in ankylosing spondylitisARTHRITIS & RHEUMATISM, Issue 4 2009Francesco Ciccia Objective Subclinical gut inflammation is common in spondylarthritis, but the immunologic abnormalities underlying this process are undefined. Perturbation of the interleukin-23 (IL-23)/Th17 axis has emerged as a fundamental trigger of chronic inflammation. This study was undertaken to investigate the expression and tissue distribution of IL-23/Th17,related molecules in Crohn's disease (CD) and in subclinical gut inflammation in ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Methods Quantitative gene expression analysis of Th1/Th2 and IL-23/Th17 responses was performed in intestinal biopsy samples obtained from 12 patients with CD, 15 patients with AS, and 13 controls. IL-23 tissue distribution and identification of IL-23,producing cells were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Results We demonstrated a strong and significant up-regulation of IL-23p19 transcripts in the terminal ileum in patients with AS and patients with CD. IL-23 was abundantly produced by infiltrating monocyte-like cells in inflamed mucosa from AS and CD patients. Notably, we also identified Paneth cells as a major source of IL-23 in patients with AS, patients with CD, and normal controls. Unlike CD, in AS patients, IL-23 was not associated with up-regulation of IL-17 and the IL-17,inducing cytokines IL-6 and IL-1,. Finally, while the Th1-related cytokines interferon-,, IL-12p35, and IL-27p28 were overexpressed only in CD patients, IL-4, IL-5, and STAT-6 were also significantly increased in AS patients. Conclusion Our findings indicate that overexpression of IL-23, but not IL-17, is a pivotal feature of subclinical gut inflammation in AS. Identification of resident Paneth cells as a pivotal source of IL-23 in physiologic and pathologic conditions strongly suggests that IL-23 is a master regulator of gut mucosal immunity, providing a pathophysiologic significance to the reported association between IL-23 receptor polymorphisms and intestinal inflammation. [source] Trichostrongylus colubriformis and Haemonchus contortus infections in light bodyweight Merino lambsAUSTRALIAN VETERINARY JOURNAL, Issue 11 2007SJ McClure Objective To show that low bodyweight is a predisposing cause of high Trichostrongylus colubriformis and Haemonchus contortus burdens and egg counts in Merino lambs. Design A comparison was made, among lambs of different bodyweights, on the effect on immunity of a primary or secondary viable infection with T colubriformis or H contortus larvae. Procedure Sixty-one Merino lambs, 1 or 6 months of age, were penned indoors and given primary, or both primary and secondary, infection of T colubriformis or H contortus. Faecal egg counts, worm counts and parasite-specific immunoglobulin concentrations were examined for their relationships with bodyweight. Results Bodyweight at the start of a primary infection was correlated with worm burden, worm fecundity and jejunal IgA antibody concentration. Merino lambs weighing less than 23 kg at the time of first exposure to T colubriformis or H contortus had impaired ability to develop protective mucosal immunity and to resist homologous challenge. Conclusion If the goal is to ensure that lambs develop immunity before weaning, then every endeavour should be made to achieve the combination of critical bodyweight and exposure to moderate levels of nematode infection as soon as possible. [source] Production of biopharmaceuticals and vaccines in plants via the chloroplast genomeBIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL, Issue 10 2006Henry Daniell Dr.Article first published online: 27 SEP 200 Abstract Transgenic plants offer many advantages, including low cost of production (by elimination of fermenters), storage and transportation; heat stability; and absence of human pathogens. When therapeutic proteins are orally delivered, plant cells protect antigens in the stomach through bioencapsulation and eliminate the need for expensive purification and sterile injections, in addition to development of both systemic and mucosal immunity. Chloroplast genetic engineering offers several advantages, including high levels of transgene expression, transgene containment via maternal inheritance and multi-gene expression in a single transformation event. Hyper-expression of vaccine antigens against cholera, tetanus, anthrax, plague or canine parvovirus (4,31% of total soluble protein, tsp) in transgenic chloroplasts (leaves) or non-green plastids (carrots, tomato), as well as the availability of antibiotic-free selectable markers or the ability to excise selectable marker genes, facilitate oral delivery. Hyper-expression of several therapeutic proteins, including human serum albumin (11.1% tsp), somatotropin (7% tsp), interferon-gamma (6% tsp), anti-microbial peptide (21.5% tsp), facilitates efficient and economic purification. Also, the presence of chaperones and enzymes in chloroplasts facilitate assembly of complex multi-subunit proteins and correct folding of human blood proteins with proper disulfide bonds. Functionality of chloroplast-derived vaccine antigens and therapeutic proteins has been demonstrated by several assays, including the macrophage lysis assay, GM1-ganglioside binding assay, protection of HeLa cells or human lung carcinoma cells against encephalomyocarditis virus, systemic immune response, protection against pathogen challenge, and growth or inhibition of cell cultures. Thus, transgenic chloroplasts are ideal bioreactors for production of functional human and animal therapeutic proteins in an environmentally friendly manner. [source] Production of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen in Recombinant Plant Systems: An UpdateBIOTECHNOLOGY PROGRESS, Issue 3 2007G. B. Sunil Kumar There is a growing interest to develop oral vaccines for infectious diseases, as it is the most convenient and effective way to attain mucosal immunity. Hepatitis B continues to be a major infectious disease in many developing countries despite the availability of recombinant vaccine. On a global scenario, Hepatitis B Virus infection is probably the single most prevalent cause of persistent viraemia in humans. There are about 350 million chronic carriers of HBV, which is about 5% of the total world population. It is estimated that 75,100 million of them will die of liver cirrhosis and/or hepatocellular carcinoma. Progress in plant genetic engineering has enabled the transfer of useful genes for desirable traits. The recent trend is to use this technique to exploit plants as biofactories for the production of therapeutic proteins including vaccines. Rapid progress has been made in this area to develop plant-based vaccines for hepatitis B. This review describes the expression, characterization, and immunogenicity studies of hepatitis B vaccines produced in recombinant plant systems and their implications for developing a plant-based vaccine. [source] Primary prevention of allergy: avoiding risk or providing protection?CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL ALLERGY, Issue 2 2008E. Hamelmann Summary Primary prevention strategies of allergy so far have been aimed to fight allergy causes, by avoiding risk factors and inhibiting their mechanisms of action. The results of trials testing food or airborne allergen avoidance as a prevention strategy were, however, rather disappointing. A reverse approach for primary prevention of allergies aims to facilitate exposure to protecting factors which promote the induction of immunologic tolerance against innocuous antigens. These factors are associated with farming environment and a ,traditional lifestyle', but identification of these factors is quite difficult. Major candidates include food-borne microbes, helminths or their components, which are able to stimulate mucosal immunity, particularly in the gut. Similarly, new preventive and therapeutic strategies are being tested to induce specific food-allergen oral tolerance through the ingestion of progressively increasing doses of the offending food. This shifting of allergy prevention research from avoidance to tolerance induction will hopefully allow us to reverse the epidemic trend of allergy diseases. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||